Woody weeds and invasive brush can be a major headache for gardeners, farmers, and landscapers across Australia. Plants like blackberry, lantana, gorse, and other stubborn shrubs can quickly take over an area, choking out desirable plants and reducing land usability. Traditional methods like manual removal or mechanical cutting often provide only temporary relief, as these weeds tend to regrow from remaining roots or stems. Herbicides like Bow Saw offer a powerful, long-term solution for controlling tough woody weeds and brush.
In this article, we’ll explore:
What is Bow Saw Herbicide?
Key Benefits of Using Bow Saw Herbicide
How Does Bow Saw Herbicide Work?
Best Practices for Applying Bow Saw Herbicide
Safety Precautions When Using Herbicides
Alternative Methods for Controlling Woody Weeds
Why Choose Bow Saw Herbicide Over Other Products?
Where to Buy Quality Herbicides and Garden Supplies in Gold Coast
What is Bow Saw Herbicide?
Bow Saw Herbicide is a systemic herbicide specially formulated to target and eliminate woody weeds and brush. Its active ingredient, triclopyr, is highly effective against deep-rooted and persistent plants. Unlike contact herbicides that only kill the foliage, Bow Saw is absorbed by the plant and transported to the roots, ensuring complete eradication.
This herbicide is commonly used in:
Pastures and farmland (to control invasive shrubs)
Roadside vegetation management
Forestry and bush regeneration
Residential gardens and landscaping
It is particularly useful for tackling:
- Blackberry
- Lantana
- Gorse
- Willows
- Other woody weeds
Key Benefits of Using Bow Saw Herbicide
✔ Long-Lasting Control
Bow Saw doesn’t just kill the visible parts of the weed—it destroys the entire plant, including the root system, preventing regrowth.
✔ Fast-Acting Formula
Visible results can often be seen within 1-2 weeks, with complete plant death occurring in 4-6 weeks.
✔ Selective or Non-Selective Options
Depending on the formulation, Bow Saw can be used as a selective herbicide (sparing grasses) or a non-selective brush killer.
✔ Rainfast Within Hours
Once absorbed, Bow Saw resists being washed away by rain, making it reliable in unpredictable Australian weather.
✔ Cost-Effective Solution
Compared to repeated manual removal or mechanical clearing, Bow Saw provides a more economical long-term solution.
How Does Bow Saw Herbicide Work?
Bow Saw contains triclopyr, a synthetic auxin that mimics natural plant hormones. When applied, it disrupts the weed’s growth processes, causing:
Uncontrolled cell division → leads to twisted, deformed growth
Root inhibition → prevents nutrient uptake
Systemic translocation → spreads to all parts of the plant
The herbicide is best applied via:
Foliar spray (for leafy weeds)
Cut-stump treatment (for larger woody plants)
Basal bark application (for thick-barked shrubs)
For best results, apply during the active growth phase (spring to early autumn) when weeds are most vulnerable.
Best Practices for Applying Bow Saw Herbicide
✔ Correct Mixing Ratios
Always follow the label instructions. A typical mix is 1:100 (herbicide to water) for foliar spraying.
✔ Optimal Weather Conditions
Apply in calm, dry weather (wind can cause drift)
Avoid spraying if rain is expected within 6 hours
✔ Proper Application Techniques
Foliar Spraying: Cover leaves thoroughly but avoid runoff.
Cut-Stump Method: Apply immediately after cutting.
Basal Bark Treatment: Spray lower 30-50cm of the stem.
✔ Equipment Maintenance
Use a dedicated sprayer for herbicides to avoid contamination.
Safety Precautions When Using Herbicides
While Bow Saw is highly effective, proper handling is crucial:
Wear PPE: Gloves, goggles, long sleeves.
Avoid Drift: Use a shield or low-pressure spray.
Keep Away from Waterways: Prevents contamination.
Store Safely: Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Alternative Methods for Controlling Woody Weeds
While herbicides like Bow Saw are highly effective, some gardeners prefer alternative methods:
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Manual Removal | Chemical-free, immediate results | Labor-intensive, regrowth likely |
| Mechanical Cutting | Fast for large areas | Doesn’t kill roots, regrowth occurs |
| Mulching/Smothering | Organic, suppresses weeds | Slow, not effective for all species |
| Biological Control (e.g., insects) | Eco-friendly | Limited effectiveness, slow |
For most cases, Bow Saw Herbicide remains the most efficient solution.
Why Choose Bow Saw Herbicide Over Other Products?
Compared to generic glyphosate-based herbicides, Bow Saw:
Targets woody weeds more effectively
Has better rainfast properties
Provides longer residual control
Is less harmful to grasses (in selective formulations)
For tough brush and deep-rooted weeds, Bow Saw outperforms many alternatives.
Where to Buy Quality Herbicides and Garden Supplies in Gold Coast
If you’re battling stubborn weeds in your garden or property, Garden Nursery Products has you covered! As a trusted Gold Coast garden supply store, we stock:
- Bow Saw Herbicide and other professional-grade weed killers
- Fertilisers, soil conditioners, and mulch
- Pesticides & fungicides for all plant health needs
- Landscaping tools and equipment
Visit us today or shop online for expert advice and top-quality garden solutions to keep your outdoor space thriving!
